RENO — KNPB announced last week that it has initiated a series of broadcast, online and community activities as part of “American Graduate: Let’s Make It Happen,” a national public media initiative funded by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) to help Reno and other communities across America to address the high school dropout crisis.

Every year 1 million kids drop out of high school nationwide. In Washoe County School District, 37% of students failed to graduate in 2010, according to district data. The estimated economic impact on Washoe County is a loss of $260,000 in revenues and earnings per drop out, according to the Education Alliance of Washoe County. Furthermore, high school drop outs are more likely to become incarcerated, need public assistance, and have higher health care needs.

The KNPB “American Graduate” initiative began in September of 2011 with the airing of Looking Up from the Bottom. This locally produced show highlighted the efforts of the school district and other local organizations that make a difference in the northern Nevada Community.

KNPB realizes that high school graduation begins in the early grades. Through their Ready To Learn outreach, the station has directly touched 1,408 primary age children and 211 parents with presentations on science, writing, nutrition. These interactive, engaging presentations are delivered in classrooms, to parent groups, and to other community organizations.

By engaging students in the education process, we will keep students in school. KNPB also proudly supports local efforts such as Parent University, the Community Compact, and the district’s Re-engagement Centers in the fight to keep students in school and to ensure that all students graduate.

To learn more about KNPB and the “American Graduate: Let’s Make It Happen” initiative, visit knpb.org/teachers_resources/American_graduate.